The Murray

Aboriginal Victoria

The Murray River region is not only magnificent in its natural diversity, it is a place steeped in Indigenous history, culture and spiritual significance. Today there are over 40 Aboriginal nations in the Murray-Darling Basin. Discover some of Australia's most significant Aboriginal sites and learn about the important relationship The Murray's traditional owners have with the ancient landscape.

Dreamtime stories
Imagine, as you travel down the river, one of the main dreamtime stories telling of the creation of the Murray River, where the the Ngarrindjeri people's ancestor Ngurunderi created the Murray River and its landscape with his long journey to Coorong.

While there are different versions of Ngurunderi's story, the common theme is his long chase of the Murray cod (Ponde), towards the Murray mouth. As Ponde swam to escape Ngurunderi's spear, the wide sweeps of his tail created its bends and turns. At last the giant fish arrived at Lake Alexandrina, the end of the Murray River.

Experience the Murray region and learn about the Aboriginal dreamtime heritage with a local Aboriginal guide. Descendants of the Yorta Yorta and Barkindji people of the area run tours from Mildura to various significant sites, offering visitors an insight into their traditions, culture and legends.

This land has spirit
Immerse yourself in the creation story of Purra, a Kangaroo Spirit, who marked a route through the middle of the desert. This became an important ancestral meeting place for the Aboriginal communities of Victoria's north west.

Visit the rugged desert landscape of the Mungo National Park, a world heritage-listed site that is the home of Mungo Man and Woman, whose remains date back 42,000 years and are the oldest human remains found in Australia to date. Join a guided day tour through the park or multi-day tour that includes camping out under the stars.

Explore other stunning landscapes with deep roots in Aboriginal heritage at the heritage-listed Willandra Lakes, where the iconic Walls of China can be found, as well as Wyperfield, Hattah Kulkyne, Murray Sunset and Little Desert national parks.